When you first hear Doghouse, you may wonder if it’s negative, like being in the doghouse, but we’ve put a new spin on the idea of the Doghouse at Heath Middle School. Doghouses are bi-weekly small group meetings of students facilitated by a staff member. We use this time to discuss topics that affect our students from a positive perspective, asking them to share their thoughts and ideas and recognizing students when they do the right thing.

These meetings support our Positive Behavior Intervention System (PBIS) initiative. PBIS is designed to provide a framework for school that encourages the intentional building and sustaining a positive school culture where students feel safe, supported and has ownership of their school.

HMS Doghouse Topics & Activities

Bullying – small group discussion about the problem and what they can do to prevent and deal with issues

Veteran’s Day Recognition – students made cards expressing their appreciation for our veterans. These cards were then delivered to the local VFW to be distributed to members.

Respect: Offensive Language – students were prompted to recognize and discuss the offensive language (racial, sexual, other) that is evident in the building; whether through “playful” comments made between friends, hurtful comments to/about other students, or simply singing lyrics aloud.

Holiday Trivia Challenge between Doghouses

Annual Food Drive – Doghouses earn points for items brought in for the local food pantry.

The Power of Positivity - students shared and received anonymous positive notes